Characters of the Christmas Story

As we count down the upcoming weeks leading to our Savior's birthday, I wanted to focus on each of those involved in the Christmas story. In keeping with Pastor Ken's sermons on the manger, I hope to give you a glimpse into the hearts and minds of those characters. I pray that you will love Jesus even more this holiday season, as you read His wonderful story.

Joseph

Joseph, the son of Jacob, was a humble carpenter in the town of Nazareth. His family heritage went all the way back to the line of King David. Yet on this particular day, Joseph was not thinking of the kin of his past. He was deeply troubled and heart-broken, wondering what he was to do with the bride of his future. Unknown to him, the Sovereign Lord had gazed upon Joseph's heart, and saw a man who could fill a difficult and distinct role with integrity.

Joseph loved Mary deeply, yet when he had heard that she was "with child", he felt he simply could not marry her. Not wanting her reputation to be tarnished any further, Joseph made the righteous choice to divorce her quietly. It would take a miracle to change his decision, and that was exactly what the Lord God had in mind.

After much wrestling of the heart and mind, Joseph fell into an exhausted sleep. And in his slumber, the Lord God sent His angel to speak these prophetic and reassuring words to Joseph's soul: "Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus..."

When the Angel of the Lord completed his assignment, Joseph awoke. He humbly accepted the messenger's words, and took them to heart. He was obedient to the angel's commands, and did as he was instructed. And God's perfect plan continued to unfold, as the time drew near for the birth of Jesus.

         Alison